Difference between major and minor in university

Hey y'all! So, I'm a bit confused about the difference between majoring and minoring in a subject at university. Can anyone help me understand the concept and share some examples?

Hi there! I'd be happy to break down the difference between a major and a minor in university.

A major is your primary field of study, which you'll be focusing on throughout your undergraduate degree. You'll be required to take a specific number of courses and possibly complete a capstone project or thesis to successfully complete your major. The major you choose will largely determine the career options available to you after graduation. For example, if you major in computer science, you'll take classes in coding, algorithms, data structures, and other related topics to gain the necessary skills for jobs in the tech industry.

On the other hand, a minor is a secondary field of study that allows you to explore a subject without committing to it as your primary focus. Minors typically require fewer courses compared to majors but still allow you to gain a solid understanding of the subject. Minoring in a subject can complement your major, help you gain additional skills, or allow you to pursue a personal interest. For instance, if you major in economics and minor in Spanish, you'll be able to explore international trade and business relations with a strong foundation in the Spanish language.

Here's an example to give you a clearer picture: A student is majoring in biology, focusing on courses like cellular biology, genetics, and biochemistry. They want to better understand the ethical and social implications of scientific advancements, so they decide to minor in philosophy. This combination allows them to gain deep knowledge in their primary field (biology) while also exploring another subject that interests them (philosophy).

Overall, your major will be the backbone of your undergraduate education, while your minor serves as a way to supplement your academic experience and diversify your skillset. I hope this clears up the difference between majoring and minoring in university!